Westfall Boyle Academy of Irish Dance

For those on Maryland's Eastern Shore seeking to embrace a vibrant cultural tradition, the Westfall Boyle Academy of Irish Dance in Salisbury offers an unparalleled opportunity. Established in 2020 by Shaun Boyle, T.C.R.G., and Douglas Westfall, A.D.C.R.G., this academy quickly became a cherished hub for Irish dance enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. From the intricate footwork of traditional step dancing to the captivating energy of performance, Westfall Boyle Academy is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Irish dance within the local community. Whether you're a complete beginner curious about this unique art form, a seasoned dancer looking to hone your skills, or a parent searching for a disciplined yet joyful activity for your child, this academy provides a welcoming and professional environment to embark on your Irish dance journey.

The foundation of Westfall Boyle Academy is built upon the extensive expertise and passion of its founders. Shaun Boyle, originally from Co. Donegal, Ireland, brings a wealth of international competitive experience, having held numerous titles before gracing stages worldwide with Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance for nearly a decade. Douglas Westfall, a Maryland native, also boasts years of competitive dancing across the United States and Ireland, culminating in his teacher's and adjudicator's certifications. This unique blend of authentic Irish heritage and local understanding ensures that students receive top-tier instruction rooted in tradition, delivered with a keen awareness of the local community's needs. The academy prides itself on deeply enriching the lives of its students, their families, and the wider community through the captivating world of Irish dance. They believe Irish dancing is not just about steps but about fostering self-discipline, excellence, a strong work ethic, and physical fitness in dancers of all ages and abilities.

At Westfall Boyle Academy, the mission extends beyond mere dance instruction. It's about cultivating a supportive environment where teamwork flourishes, and students are empowered to reach their full potential, both as dancers and as individuals. The dedication of the staff is unwavering, tirelessly helping students achieve their goals, whether that's performing in local events or competing on a global stage. The academy is a certified Irish Dancing School and a fully vetted member of An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha in Dublin, Ireland, and the Irish Dancing Teachers' Association of North America (IDTANA), assuring a commitment to international standards and authentic technique.

The Westfall Boyle Academy of Irish Dance is conveniently located at 799 N Salisbury Blvd #1400, Salisbury, MD 21801, USA. This easily accessible address places the academy within a prominent commercial area in Salisbury, a central city on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Salisbury serves as a regional hub, making the academy a convenient destination for residents not only from Salisbury itself but also from surrounding towns and counties such as Fruitland, Delmar, Princess Anne, Cambridge, and even parts of Delaware.

Being situated on North Salisbury Boulevard, a major thoroughfare, ensures straightforward navigation for visitors. The surrounding complex likely offers ample parking, which is a significant convenience for parents dropping off and picking up students, especially during busy class times. The accessible location minimizes travel time, allowing more focus on the dance itself. This ease of access is a key benefit for Maryland families, simplifying the integration of Irish dance into their busy schedules. The academy's presence in Salisbury also contributes to the vibrant cultural landscape of the Eastern Shore, providing a local outlet for learning and experiencing traditional Irish arts.

• Beginner Irish Dance Classes: Introduction to fundamental Irish dance steps and rhythms for new students of all ages, focusing on building a strong foundation.
• Intermediate and Advanced Irish Dance Classes: Progressive instruction for dancers with prior experience, focusing on refining technique, increasing complexity of steps, and developing performance quality.
• Soft Shoe Dance: Classes dedicated to light, agile footwork using soft shoes (ghillies), including reels, jigs, and slip jigs.
• Hard Shoe Dance: Instruction in percussive and rhythmic dance forms using hard shoes (heavy shoes), covering treble jigs, hornpipes, and other traditional steps.
• Traditional Set Dances: Teaching of specific, established set dances, which are fixed choreographies with unique rhythms and movements.
• Choreography and Performance Training: Development of original and traditional choreographies for various performance opportunities, focusing on stage presence, synchronicity, and artistic expression.
• Competition Preparation: Specialized training for students interested in competing at local, regional (Oireachtas), national, and even World Championships, including drilling steps, perfecting technique, and understanding competition rules.
• Show Class: For dancers interested in out-of-school performances, participating in approximately three public or private events per year, as well as parades and the annual recital. (Requires completion of one year of hard shoe).
• Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction available for focused, personalized coaching to address specific areas of improvement or accelerate progress.
• Workshops and Clinics: Opportunities for intensive training sessions led by the academy's instructors or guest dancers, often focusing on specific techniques or competition preparation.
• Community Performances: Dancers have opportunities to perform at various local festivals, private functions, parades (especially around St. Patrick's Day), and other community events, sharing Irish culture with a wider audience.
• All Ages and Abilities: Classes are offered for children, teens, and adults, accommodating various skill levels from recreational dancers to aspiring champions.

• Highly Qualified and Experienced Instructors: The academy is led by Shaun Boyle, T.C.R.G., a former Lord of the Dance performer and international champion, and Douglas Westfall, A.D.C.R.G., an accomplished competitor and certified adjudicator. Their combined expertise ensures authentic and high-caliber instruction rooted in traditional Irish dance.
• Commitment to Holistic Development: Westfall Boyle Academy focuses not only on technical dance skills but also on fostering essential life qualities. Their mission emphasizes deeply enriching students' lives, promoting self-discipline, excellence, a strong work ethic, physical fitness, teamwork, and confidence.
• Supportive and Encouraging Environment: The academy is praised for its positive, fun, and friendly atmosphere. Instructors are known for being very "encouraging," ensuring that dancers feel supported whether they are returning to dance after a long break or taking their very first steps.
• Opportunities for All Levels and Goals: Whether a student desires to dance for pure enjoyment and fitness, perform at local events, or pursue competitive excellence up to World Championship levels, Westfall Boyle Academy provides pathways and dedicated training for all aspirations. Their "first class is free" offer encourages new participants to try it out.
• Community Engagement through Performance: The academy's performance group actively participates in various public and private events throughout the year, bringing Irish culture to festivals, parades, and other functions, thereby enriching the local Maryland community.
• Strong Work Ethic and Dedication: The academy instills a strong work ethic in its students, pushing them to excel while maintaining a joyful and supportive approach, leading to significant improvements and competitive success.
• Authentic Irish Dance Heritage: With roots in Ireland and certifications from prominent Irish dance organizations, the academy offers genuine Irish dance traditions and techniques.

Address: 799 N Salisbury Blvd #1400, Salisbury, MD 21801, USA

Phone: (443) 235-5326

Mobile Phone: +1 443-235-5326

For residents of Maryland, particularly those on the Eastern Shore, the Westfall Boyle Academy of Irish Dance stands out as an exceptional local resource for engaging with the captivating art form of Irish dance. This academy is uniquely suited for locals for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its convenient Salisbury location on North Salisbury Boulevard makes it easily accessible for families across Wicomico County and neighboring areas, simplifying the logistics of attending classes and reducing travel time. This accessibility ensures that more Marylanders can experience the joy and benefits of Irish dance without undue burden.

Secondly, the academy's commitment to offering programs for all ages and skill levels means that whether you're a child taking their first curious steps into dance, a teenager looking for a challenging artistic outlet, or an adult wanting to rekindle a passion or try something new, there's a place for you. The "first class is free" invitation is a testament to their welcoming philosophy, encouraging locals to experience their vibrant atmosphere firsthand. This inclusivity fosters a diverse and supportive community, a place where friendships are formed, and individuals feel comfortable exploring their potential.

Moreover, the caliber of instruction offered by founders Shaun Boyle and Douglas Westfall, both highly accomplished and certified in Irish dance, ensures that students receive authentic and top-tier training. This blend of international experience and local dedication is a rare asset. The academy's emphasis on holistic development—promoting discipline, confidence, and teamwork alongside dance technique—makes it an invaluable environment for personal growth. For Maryland families seeking a physical activity that also enriches cultural understanding and builds character, Westfall Boyle Academy provides an ideal setting. It's a local gem that not only teaches dance but also celebrates Irish heritage and empowers its students to shine, both on and off the dance floor, making it an excellent choice for anyone in the region looking for a truly enriching artistic and community experience.

Westfall Boyle Academy of Irish Dance

799 N Salisbury Blvd #1400, Salisbury, MD 21801, USA